What Determines If I Replace Rather than Repair My HVAC Unit?

A properly working heating, ventilation and air conditioning system is essential for comfort in your home. Without a proper HVAC system in your Miramar home, life would be pretty miserable. As a matter of fact, it would be almost impossible to survive the biting cold of winter or a torrid summer. That’s why you need to ensure that your HVAC system is operating as efficient as possible all year round.

Regular servicing and maintenance is crucial to keeping your system in excellent shape. However, sometimes this is not enough and replacing your heating and air conditioning unit will be a better option. If your HVAC equipment runs excessively or constantly turns on and off, requires frequent repairs or you are paying huge utility bills irrespective of properly maintaining your unit, it will be more economical to replace it. However, you shouldn’t be pressured by anyone to make that decision, but consider what is best for your situation and needs.

What to Consider When Making a Choice between Repairs and Replacement

If your HVAC system fails occasionally and you are faced with a choice of either repairing or replacing it, it’s crucial to consider several factors in order to make the best decision. Ensure you consider each factor carefully to ensure that the money you will be spending in replacement or repairs will be worthwhile. Some of the factors to consider are:

Efficiency

If your existing system is operating at low efficiency, it means you pay huge utility bills every month. If repairing and replacing certain parts does not significantly improve the efficiency of your system, replacing the entire unit would be your best bet. Typically, older systems are much less efficient than newer units as a result of constant improvement of energy standards by the government. HVAC units’ efficiency is measured by seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER); the higher the rating the higher the efficiency.

Therefore, replacing an old and inefficient system can save you a considerable amount of money both in the short run and long run. For instance, if your older unit is rated 10 SEER, it gets 10 units of cooling for a set amount of electricity while a unit rated 16 SEER gets 16 units for the same amount of electricity. You will thus get 60% more cooling for the same amount of energy costs. Though replacing an older system with a new unit is costly, the HVAC system will be able to pay for itself in terms of energy savings.

Life Expectancy

Most heating, ventilation and air conditioning units last only for 8 to 12 years after which they become costly to repair since they breakdown often. When considering replacing or repairing your unit then, the age can help you make a more informed decision. If your system is 8 years or more, it’s nearing its life expectancy and the cost of repairs might be higher making it more economical to replace it.

Current Condition

Quality of equipment and number of breakdowns should also be factored in when making a decision between repairs and replacement. If your system is of inferior quality and keeps on breaking down, a replacement would be the best option.

Getting Professional Help

A reputable and trustworthy HVAC company can help you make an informed and sound decision. They will help you evaluate both sides of the coin making it easier for you to settle for either repairs or replacement.